Steerable laser probe

ABSTRACT

A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an actuation control of the handle, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housing tube proximal end, a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness, a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness, an optic fiber disposed within an inner portion of the handle and the housing tube, and a cable disposed within the housing tube and the actuation control. A rotation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually curve the housing tube and the optic fiber. A rotation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually straighten the housing tube and the optic fiber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No.14/953,393 filed Nov. 29, 2015.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument, and, moreparticularly, to a steerable laser probe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide variety of ophthalmic procedures require a laser energy source.For example, ophthalmic surgeons may use laser photocoagulation to treatproliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy is a conditioncharacterized by the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retinathat grow into the vitreous humor. Ophthalmic surgeons may treat thiscondition by energizing a laser to cauterize portions of the retina toprevent the abnormal blood vessels from growing and hemorrhaging.

In order to increase the chances of a successful laser photocoagulationprocedure, it is important that a surgeon is able aim the laser at aplurality of targets within the eye, e.g., by guiding or moving thelaser from a first target to a second target within the eye. It is alsoimportant that the surgeon is able to easily control a movement of thelaser. For example, the surgeon must be able to easily direct a laserbeam by steering the beam to a first position aimed at a first target,guide the laser beam from the first position to a second position aimedat a second target, and hold the laser beam in the second position.Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical laser probe that can beeasily guided to a plurality of targets within the eye.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure presents a steerable laser probe. In one or moreembodiments, a steerable laser probe may comprise a handle having ahandle distal end and a handle proximal end, an actuation control of thehandle, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housingtube proximal end, a first housing tube portion having a firststiffness, a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness, anoptic fiber disposed within an inner portion of the handle and thehousing tube, and a cable disposed within the housing tube and theactuation control. Illustratively, a rotation of the actuation controlmay be configured to gradually curve the housing tube. In one or moreembodiments, a gradual curving of the housing tube may be configured togradually curve the optic fiber. Illustratively, a rotation of theactuation control may be configured to gradually straighten the housingtube. In one or more embodiments, a gradual straightening of the housingtube may be configured to gradually straighten the optic fiber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages of the present invention may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicateidentical or functionally similar elements:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an actuationcontrol;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an actuation control100. FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of an actuation control 100.Illustratively, actuation control 100 may comprise an actuation controldistal end 101, an actuation control proximal end 102, an actuationcontrol anterior end 103, and an actuation control posterior end 104.FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an actuation control 100.In one or more embodiments, actuation control 100 may comprise afixation pin guide 110, a cable housing 120, and an actuation chamber130. Illustratively, actuation control 100 may be manufactured from anysuitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or fromany combination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly 200. FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of a handleassembly 200. In one or more embodiments, handle assembly 200 maycomprise a handle end cap 205 having a handle end cap distal end 206 anda handle end cap proximal end 207, an actuation control mount 210 havingan actuation control mount distal end 211 and an actuation control mountproximal end 212, an actuation control 100, a fixation pin 215, a handlebase 220 having a handle base distal end 221 and a handle base proximalend 222, and a handle end cap interface 225. Illustratively, actuationcontrol 100 may be disposed within actuation control mount 210. In oneor more embodiments, fixation pin 215 may be configured to fix actuationcontrol 100 within actuation control mount 210, e.g., fixation pin 215may be disposed within a portion of actuation control mount 210 andwithin a portion of actuation control 100. Illustratively, fixation pin215 may be disposed within actuation control mount 210 and fixation pinguide 110. In one or more embodiments, actuation control 100 may berotated about fixation pin 215, e.g., a surgeon may rotate actuationcontrol 100 within actuation control mount 210 by applying a force to aportion of actuation control 100.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly 200.Illustratively, handle assembly 200 may comprise a handle inner portion240, an auto-fixing component housing 245, and a housing tube housing250. In one or more embodiments, actuation control 100 may be orientedwherein a portion of actuation chamber 130 may be disposed within aportion of handle inner portion 240. Illustratively, handle end cap 205,actuation control mount 210, and handle base 220 may be manufacturedfrom any suitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc.,or from any combination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 300. FIG.3A illustrates a side view of a handle 300. Illustratively, handle 300may comprise a handle distal end 301 and a handle proximal end 302. Inone or more embodiments, handle distal end 301 may comprise a portion ofhandle base 220, e.g., handle distal end 301 may comprise handle basedistal end 221. Illustratively, handle proximal end 302 may comprise aportion of end cap 205, e.g., handle proximal end 302 may comprisehandle end cap proximal end 207.

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle 300. In one ormore embodiments, actuation control mount 210 may be disposed withinhandle end cap 205 and handle base 220. Illustratively, actuationcontrol mount 210 may be disposed within handle end cap 205 and handlebase 220 wherein a portion of actuation control 100 may be adjacent to aportion of auto-fixing component housing 245. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of handle base 220 may be disposed within aportion of handle end cap 205, e.g., handle base proximal end 222 may bedisposed within handle end cap 205. In one or more embodiments, aportion of handle base 220 may be disposed within handle end cap 205wherein handle end cap interface 225 may be configured to interface witha portion of handle end cap 205, e.g., handle end cap interface 225 maybe configured to interface with handle end cap distal end 206.Illustratively, a portion of handle base 220 may be fixed within handleend cap 205, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In oneor more embodiments, a portion of handle base 220 may be fixed withinhandle end cap 205 by a press fit, a setscrew, a weld, etc.Illustratively, handle base 220 and handle end cap 205 may bemanufactured as a single unit.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube400. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 400 may comprise a housingtube distal end 401 and a housing tube proximal end 402. Housing tube400 may be manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers,metals, metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitablematerials. Illustratively, housing tube 400 may be manufactured withdimensions configured for microsurgical procedures, e.g., ophthalmicsurgical procedures. FIG. 4A illustrates a housing tube 400 oriented toillustrate a first housing tube portion 420. Illustratively, firsthousing tube portion 420 may have a first stiffness. FIG. 4B illustratesa housing tube 400 oriented to illustrate a second housing tube portion430. Illustratively, second housing tube portion 430 may have a secondstiffness. In one or more embodiments, the second stiffness may begreater than the first stiffness. Illustratively, first housing tubeportion 420 may comprise a first material having a first stiffness. Inone or more embodiments, second housing tube portion 430 may comprise asecond material having a second stiffness. Illustratively, the secondstiffness may be greater than the first stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 400 may comprise a non-uniforminner diameter or a non-uniform outer diameter, e.g., to vary astiffness of one or more portions of housing tube 400. Illustratively, afirst housing tube portion 420 may comprise a first inner diameter ofhousing tube 400 and a second housing tube portion 430 may comprise asecond inner diameter of housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments,the first inner diameter of housing tube 400 may be larger than thesecond inner diameter of housing tube 400. Illustratively, a firsthousing tube portion 420 may comprise a first outer diameter of housingtube 400 and a second housing tube portion 430 may comprise a secondouter diameter of housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, thefirst outer diameter of housing tube 400 may be smaller than the secondouter diameter of housing tube 400.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 420 may compriseone or more apertures configured to produce a first stiffness of firsthousing tube portion 420. Illustratively, second housing tube portion430 may comprise a solid portion of housing tube 400 having a secondstiffness. In one or more embodiments, the second stiffness may begreater than the first stiffness. Illustratively, first housing tubeportion 420 may comprise one or more apertures configured to produce afirst stiffness of first housing tube portion 420. In one or moreembodiments, second housing tube portion 430 may comprise one or moreapertures configured to produce a second stiffness of second housingtube portion 430. Illustratively, the second stiffness may be greaterthan the first stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 420 may comprisea plurality of slits configured to separate one or more solid portionsof housing tube 400. Illustratively, a plurality of slits may be cut,e.g., laser cut, into first housing tube portion 420. In one or moreembodiments, first housing tube portion 420 may comprise a plurality ofslits configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube400 and a cannula, e.g., as housing tube 400 is inserted into thecannula or as housing tube 400 is extracted from the cannula. Forexample, each slit of the plurality of slits may comprise one or morearches configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube400 and a cannula.

FIG. 4C illustrates an angled view of housing tube 400. Illustratively,an optic fiber 450 may be disposed within housing tube 400. In one ormore embodiments, optic fiber 450 may comprise an optic fiber distal end451 and an optic fiber proximal end 452. Illustratively, optic fiber 450may be configured to transmit light, e.g., laser light, illuminationlight, etc. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 may be disposedwithin housing tube 400 wherein optic fiber distal end 451 may beadjacent to housing tube distal end 401. Illustratively, optic fiber 450may be disposed within housing tube 400 wherein a portion of optic fiber450 may be adjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 450 may be fixed to aninner portion of housing tube 400, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means.

Illustratively, a cable 410 may be disposed in housing tube 400. In oneor more embodiments, a cable 410 may comprise a cable distal end 411 anda cable proximal end 412. Illustratively, cable 410 may be disposed inhousing tube 400 wherein cable distal end 411 may be adjacent to housingtube distal end 401. In one or more embodiments, cable 410 may bedisposed in housing tube 400 wherein a portion of cable 410 may beadjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Illustratively,a portion of cable 410 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., cable distal end 411 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube400. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 410 may be fixed toa portion of housing tube 400, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means. Illustratively, a portion of cable 410 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 400 by a weld, a press fit, a loop, a tie, etc.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 500. In one or more embodiments, asteerable laser probe assembly 500 may comprise a handle 300 having ahandle distal end 301 and a handle proximal end 302, a housing tube 400having a housing tube distal end 401 and a housing tube proximal end402, a cable 410 having a cable distal end 411 and a cable proximal end412, an optic fiber 450 having an optic fiber distal end 451 and anoptic fiber proximal end 452, an auto-fixing component 520 having anauto-fixing component distal end 521 and an auto-fixing componentproximal end 522, and a light source interface 510. Illustratively,light source interface 510 may be configured to interface with opticfiber 450, e.g., at optic fiber proximal end 452. In one or moreembodiments, light source interface 510 may comprise a standard lightsource connecter, e.g., an SMA connector.

Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 400 may be disposed within aportion of handle 300, e.g., housing tube proximal end 402 may bedisposed within a portion of handle 300. In one or more embodiments, aportion of housing tube 400 may be disposed within a portion of handlebase 220, e.g., housing tube proximal end 402 may be disposed in housingtube housing 250. Illustratively, a portion of housing tube 400 may befixed within a portion of handle 300, e.g., housing tube proximal end402 may be fixed within housing tube housing 250. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of housing tube 400 may be fixed within housingtube housing 250, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.For example, a portion of housing tube 400 may be fixed within housingtube housing 250 by a press fit, a set screw, etc.

Illustratively, optic fiber 450 may be disposed within handle innerportion 240, actuation chamber 130, housing tube housing 250, andhousing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 may bedisposed within housing tube 400 wherein optic fiber distal end 451 maybe adjacent to housing tube distal end 401. Illustratively, a portion ofoptic fiber 450 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., byan adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or more embodiments,cable 410 may be disposed within cable housing 120, actuation chamber130, handle inner portion 240, housing tube housing 250, and housingtube 400. Illustratively, cable 410 may be disposed within housing tube400 wherein cable distal end 411 may be adjacent to housing tube distalend 401. In one or more embodiments, cable 410 may be disposed withinhousing tube 400 wherein a portion of cable 410 may be adjacent to aportion of first housing tube portion 420. Illustratively, a portion ofcable 410 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., by anadhesive or any suitable fixation means. For example, a portion of cable410 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400 by a weld, a pressfit, a loop, a tie, etc. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable410 may be fixed within cable housing 120, e.g., by an adhesive or anysuitable fixation means. For example, a portion of cable 410 may befixed within cable housing 120 by a weld, a press fit, a loop, a tie,etc. Illustratively, a first portion of cable 410 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 400 and a second portion of cable 410 may befixed within cable housing 120. In one or more embodiments, cable distalend 411 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400. Illustratively,cable proximal end 412 may be fixed within cable housing 120.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may rotate actuation control 100within handle inner portion 240, e.g., by applying a force to a portionof actuation control 100. Illustratively, actuation chamber 130 may beconfigured to prevent a contact between a portion of actuation control100 and a portion of optic fiber 450, e.g., due to a rotation ofactuation control 100. In one or more embodiments, a geometry ofactuation chamber 130 may be configured to prevent a contact between aportion of actuation control 100 and a portion of optic fiber 450, e.g.,due to a rotation of actuation control. Illustratively, a surgeon mayrotate actuation control 100 about fixation pin 215, e.g., by applying aforce to a portion of actuation control 100. In one or more embodiments,a rotation of actuation control 100 may be configured to retract cable410 relative to housing tube 400. Illustratively, a retraction of cable410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of housing tube 400, e.g., a retraction of cable 410 relative tohousing tube 400 may be configured to apply a force to first housingtube portion 420. In one or more embodiments, an application of a forceto a portion of housing tube 400 may be configured to compress a portionof housing tube 400, e.g., an application of a force to a portion ofhousing tube 400 may be configured to compress first housing tubeportion 420. Illustratively, a compression of a portion of housing tube400 may be configured to cause housing tube 400 to gradually curve. Inone or more embodiments, a gradual curving of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 450. Illustratively, arotation of actuation control 100 may be configured to gradually curveoptic fiber 450.

In one or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 may beconfigured to extend cable 410 relative to housing tube 400.Illustratively, an extension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube400, e.g., an extension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to first housing tube portion 420.In one or more embodiments, a reduction of a force applied to a portionof housing tube 400 may be configured to decompress a portion of housingtube 400, e.g., a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to decompress first housing tube portion 420.Illustratively, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 400 to gradually straighten. In one ormore embodiments, a gradual straightening of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 450. Illustratively, arotation of actuation control 100 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 450.

In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing component 520 may be disposedwithin auto-fixing component housing 245. Illustratively, auto-fixingcomponent 520 may be fixed within auto-fixing component housing 245,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or moreembodiments, auto-fixing component 520 may be disposed withinauto-fixing component housing 245 wherein a portion of auto-fixingcomponent 520 may be adjacent to a portion of actuation control 100.Illustratively, auto-fixing component 520 may be configured to produce amagnetic field, e.g., auto-fixing component 520 may comprise a permanentmagnet. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing component 520 maycomprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g., auto-fixing component 520 maycomprise a ferrimagnetic material. Illustratively, actuation control 100may be configured to produce a magnetic field, e.g., actuation control100 may comprise a permanent magnetic. In one or more embodiments,actuation control 100 may comprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g.,actuation control 100 may comprise a ferrimagnetic material.

Illustratively, auto-fixing component 520 may be configured totemporarily fix actuation control 100 in a rotational position withinhandle inner portion 240, e.g., a magnetic force attracting actuationcontrol 100 to auto-fixing component 520 may be configured to holdactuation control 100 fixed in a rotational position within handle innerportion 240. In one or more embodiments, actuation control 100 may beconfigured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in a rotationalposition within handle inner portion 240, e.g., a magnetic forceattracting auto-fixing component 520 to actuation control 100 may beconfigured to temporarily hold actuation control 100 fixed in arotational position within handle inner portion 240. Illustratively,both auto-fixing component 520 and actuation control 100 may beconfigured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in a rotationalposition within handle inner portion 240, e.g., auto-fixing component520 and actuation control 100 may both comprise permanent magnets havingpoles oriented to attract auto-fixing component 520 to actuation control100 and to attract actuation control 100 to auto-fixing component 520.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may actuate actuation control 100within handle inner portion 240, e.g., by applying a force to a portionof actuation control 100 until actuation control 100 is in a firstdesired rotational position within handle inner portion 240.Illustratively, the surgeon may then remove the force applied toactuation control 100 and perform a portion of a surgical procedure,e.g., actuation control 100 and auto-fixing component 520 may beconfigured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in the first desiredrotational position within handle inner portion 240. In one or moreembodiments, the surgeon may actuate actuation control 100 within handleinner portion 240, e.g., by applying a force to a portion of actuationcontrol 100 until actuation control 100 is in a second desiredrotational position within handle inner portion 240. Illustratively, thesurgeon may then remove the force applied to actuation control 100 andperform a portion of a surgical procedure, e.g., actuation control 100and auto-fixing component 520 may be configured to temporarily fixactuation control 100 in the second desired rotational position withinhandle inner portion 240. In one or more embodiments, the surgeon mayactuate actuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240, e.g., byapplying a force to a portion of actuation control 100 until actuationcontrol 100 is in a third desired rotational position within handleinner portion 240. Illustratively, the surgeon may then remove the forceapplied to actuation control 100 and perform a portion of a surgicalprocedure, e.g., actuation control 100 and auto-fixing component 520 maybe configured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in the thirddesired rotational position within handle inner portion 240. In one ormore embodiments, actuation control 100 and auto-fixing component 520may be configured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in anydesired rotational position within handle inner portion 240.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 450. FIG. 6A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 600. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 600, e.g., when cable 410 is fullyextended relative to housing tube 400. For example, optic fiber 450 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 600, e.g., when first housing tubeportion 420 is fully decompressed. Illustratively, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 451 may be parallel to a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 402, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises a straightoptic fiber 600. In one or more embodiments, actuation control 100 andauto-fixing component 520 may be configured to temporarily fix actuationcontrol 100 in a first fixed rotational position within handle innerportion 240. Illustratively, optic fiber 450 may comprise a straightoptic fiber 600, e.g., when actuation control 100 is fixed in the firstfixed rotational position within handle inner portion 240.

FIG. 6B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 610. Inone or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 withinhandle inner portion 240 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 450 from a straight optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in a firstcurved position 610. Illustratively, a rotation of actuation control 100within handle inner portion 240 may be configured to retract cable 410relative to housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, a retractionof cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configured to apply aforce to a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., a retraction of cable 410relative to housing tube 400 may be configured to apply a force to aportion of first housing tube portion 420. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to compress a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to gradually curve housing tube 400. Illustratively, agradual curving of housing tube 400 may be configured to gradually curveoptic fiber 450, e.g., from a straight optic fiber 600 to an optic fiberin a first curved position 610. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 402 at a first angle, e.g., when optic fiber450 comprises an optic fiber in a first curved position 610. In one ormore embodiments, the first angle may comprise any angle greater thanzero degrees. For example, the first angle may comprise a 45 degreeangle. Illustratively, actuation control 100 and auto-fixing component520 may be configured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in asecond fixed rotational position within handle inner portion 240. In oneor more embodiments, optic fiber 450 may comprise an optic fiber in afirst curved position 610, e.g., when actuation control 100 is fixed inthe second fixed rotational position within handle inner portion 240.

FIG. 6C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 620. Inone or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 withinhandle inner portion 240 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 450 from an optic fiber in a first curved position 610 to an opticfiber in a second curved position 620. Illustratively, a rotation ofactuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configuredto retract cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., aretraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configuredto apply a force to a portion of first housing tube portion 420.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube400 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 400, e.g.,an application of a force to a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to compress a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to gradually curve housing tube 400. Illustratively, agradual curving of housing tube 400 may be configured to gradually curveoptic fiber 450, e.g., from an optic fiber in a first curved position610 to an optic fiber in a second curved position 620. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402 at a second angle, e.g.,when optic fiber 450 comprises an optic fiber in a second curvedposition 620. In one or more embodiments, the second angle may compriseany angle greater than the first angle. For example, the second anglemay comprise a 90 degree angle. Illustratively, actuation control 100and auto-fixing component 520 may be configured to temporarily fixactuation control 100 in a third fixed rotational position within handleinner portion 240. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 maycomprise an optic fiber in a second curved position 620, e.g., whenactuation control 100 is fixed in the third fixed rotational positionwithin handle inner portion 240.

FIG. 6D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 630. Inone or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 withinhandle inner portion 240 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 450 from an optic fiber in a second curved position 620 to anoptic fiber in a third curved position 630. Illustratively, a rotationof actuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240 may beconfigured to retract cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. In one ormore embodiments, a retraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., a retraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may beconfigured to apply a force to a portion of first housing tube portion420. Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., an application of a force to a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to compress a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to gradually curve housing tube 400. Illustratively, agradual curving of housing tube 400 may be configured to gradually curveoptic fiber 450, e.g., from an optic fiber in a second curved position620 to an optic fiber in a third curved position 630. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402 at a third angle, e.g.,when optic fiber 450 comprises an optic fiber in a third curved position630. In one or more embodiments, the third angle may comprise any anglegreater than the second angle. For example, the third angle may comprisea 135 degree angle. Illustratively, actuation control 100 andauto-fixing component 520 may be configured to temporarily fix actuationcontrol 100 in a fourth fixed rotational position within handle innerportion 240. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 may comprise anoptic fiber in a third curved position 630, e.g., when actuation control100 is fixed in the fourth fixed rotational position within handle innerportion 240.

FIG. 6E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 640. Inone or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 withinhandle inner portion 240 may be configured to gradually curve opticfiber 450 from an optic fiber in a third curved position 630 to an opticfiber in a fourth curved position 640. Illustratively, a rotation ofactuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configuredto retract cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 maybe configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 400, e.g., aretraction of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configuredto apply a force to a portion of first housing tube portion 420.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube400 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 400, e.g.,an application of a force to a portion of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to compress a portion of first housing tube portion 420. Inone or more embodiments, a compression of a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to gradually curve housing tube 400. Illustratively, agradual curving of housing tube 400 may be configured to gradually curveoptic fiber 450, e.g., from an optic fiber in a third curved position630 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 640. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may beparallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402, e.g., whenoptic fiber 450 comprises an optic fiber in a fourth curved position640. Illustratively, actuation control 100 and auto-fixing component 520may be configured to temporarily fix actuation control 100 in a fifthfixed rotational position within handle inner portion 240. In one ormore embodiments, optic fiber 450 may comprise an optic fiber in afourth curved position 640, e.g., when actuation control 100 is fixed inthe fifth fixed rotational position within handle inner portion 240.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a distance that housing tube distal end401 extends from handle distal end 301 may be adjusted to vary an amountof rotation of actuation control 100 configured to curve housing tube400 to a particular curved position. In one or more embodiments, astiffness of first housing tube portion 420 or a stiffness of secondhousing tube portion 430 may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotationof actuation control 100 configured to curve housing tube 400 to aparticular curved position. Illustratively, a material comprising firsthousing tube portion 420 or a material comprising second housing tubeportion 430 may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotation of actuationcontrol 100 configured to curve housing tube 400 to a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 400may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotation of actuation control 100configured to curve housing tube 400 to a particular curved position.Illustratively, a location of one or more apertures in housing tube 400may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotation of actuation control 100configured to curve housing tube 400 to a particular curved position. Inone or more embodiments, a geometry of one or more apertures in housingtube 400 may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotation of actuationcontrol 100 configured to curve housing tube 400 to a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a geometry of one or more apertures in housingtube 400 may be uniform, e.g., each aperture of the one or moreapertures may have a same geometry. In one or more embodiments, ageometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 400 may benon-uniform, e.g., a first aperture in housing tube 400 may have a firstgeometry and a second aperture in housing tube 400 may have a secondgeometry. Illustratively, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 400 may be optimized to evenly distribute anapplied force. For example, a geometry or location of one or moreapertures in housing tube 400 may be optimized to evenly distribute aforce applied to first housing tube portion 420.

Illustratively, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 420 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 430 may be adjusted to vary abend radius of housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof first housing tube portion 420 or a stiffness of second housing tubeportion 430 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature of housingtube 400, e.g., when housing tube 400 is in a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a number of apertures in housing tube 400 maybe adjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 400 may be adjustedto vary a radius of curvature of housing tube 400, e.g., when housingtube 400 is in a particular curved position. Illustratively, a locationor a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 400 may beadjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, a location or a geometry of one or more apertures inhousing tube 400 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature ofhousing tube 400, e.g., when housing tube 400 is in a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 450 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 450, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 450, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 450, etc. Illustratively, optic fiber 450 may comprise abuffer, a cladding disposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in thecladding. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber450 may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical property ofoptic fiber 450. Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 450may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical layer of opticfiber 450, e.g., the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curvedportion of optic fiber 450. In one or more embodiments, at least aportion of optic fiber 450 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 450. For example, at least aportion of optic fiber 450 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 450.

In one or more embodiments, a location wherein cable 410 may be fixed tohousing tube 400 may be adjusted to vary an amount of rotation ofactuation control 100 configured to curve housing tube 400 to aparticular curved position. For example, a portion of cable 410 may befixed to an outer portion of housing tube 400. Illustratively, cable 410may be fixed to housing tube 400 at a plurality of fixation points,e.g., to vary one or more properties of a steerable laser probe. In oneor more embodiments, a length of cable 410 may be adjusted to vary anamount of rotation of actuation control 100 configured to curve housingtube 400 to a particular curved position. Illustratively, a steerablelaser probe may comprise one or more redundant cables 410. In one ormore embodiments, one or more redundant cables 410 may be configured tomaintain a particular curved position of housing tube 400, e.g., in theevent that cable 410 breaks or fails. Illustratively, one or moreredundant cables 410 may be configured to maintain a particular curvedposition of housing tube 400, e.g., in the event that a cable 410fixation means fails. In one or more embodiments, one or more redundantcables 410 may be configured to maintain a particular curved position ofhousing tube 400, e.g., in the event that cable 410 is no longerconfigured to maintain the particular curved position of housing tube400. Illustratively, one or more redundant cables 410 may be configuredto maintain a particular curved position of housing tube 400 whereincable 410 is also configured to maintain the particular curved positionof housing tube 400.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 400 may comprise an accesswindow configured to allow access to a portion cable 410.Illustratively, cable 410 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., by looping a portion of cable 410 through an aperture in housingtube 400. In one or more embodiments, cable 410 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 400, e.g., by a purely mechanical means. Forexample, cable 410 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400 in amanner other than by an adhesive, a weld, etc. Illustratively, cable 410may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 400 wherein a portion of cable410 is configured to fail at a first applied failure force and afixation means that fixes a portion of cable 410 to a portion of housingtube 400 is configured to fail at a second applied failure force. In oneor more embodiments, the second applied failure force may be greaterthan the first applied failure force.

Illustratively, an arrangement of a portion of cable 410, e.g., anarrangement of a portion of cable 410 between cable distal end 411 andcable proximal end 412, may be adjusted to attain one or more desiredsteerable laser probe features. In one or more embodiments, anarrangement of a portion of cable 410 may be configured to cause arotation of actuation control 100, e.g., a rotation of actuation control100 due to force vector applied to actuation control anterior end 103and directed towards handle distal end 301 and away from handle proximalend 302, to retract cable 410 relative to housing tube 400.Illustratively, an arrangement of a portion of cable 410 may beconfigured to cause a rotation of actuation control 100, e.g., arotation of actuation control 100 due to force vector applied toactuation control anterior end 103 and directed towards handle proximalend 302 and away from handle distal end 301, to extend cable 410relative to housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, cable 410 maybe disposed within actuation chamber 130, e.g., cable 410 may ingressactuation chamber 130 at actuation control distal end 101, and thendisposed within cable housing 120. Illustratively, cable 410 may bedisposed within actuation chamber 130, e.g., cable 410 may be disposedover actuation control posterior end 104 and ingress actuation chamber130 at actuation control proximal end 102, and then disposed withincable housing 120. In one or more embodiments, cable 410 may not bedisposed within actuation chamber 130, e.g., cable 410 may be disposedover actuation control posterior end 104 and actuation control proximalend 102, and then disposed within cable housing 120.

Illustratively, an arrangement of a portion of cable 410 may beconfigured to cause a rotation of actuation control 100, e.g., arotation of actuation control 100 due to force vector applied toactuation control anterior end 103 and directed towards handle proximalend 302 and away from handle distal end 301, to retract cable 410relative to housing tube 400. In one or more embodiments, an arrangementof a portion of cable 410 may be configured to cause a rotation ofactuation control 100, e.g., a rotation of actuation control 100 due toforce vector applied to actuation control anterior end 103 and directedtowards handle distal end 301 and away from handle proximal end 302, toextend cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. For example, cable 410may be disposed over a portion of actuation control 100 betweenactuation control distal end 101 and actuation control anterior end 103,and then disposed within cable housing 120.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 450 may curve, e.g.,due to a rotation of actuation control 100 within handle inner portion240. In one or more embodiments, a portion of a steerable laser probe,e.g., handle 300, may be marked in a manner configured to indicate adirection that optic fiber 450 may curve. For example, a portion ofhousing tube 400 may comprise a mark configured to indicate a directionthat optic fiber 450 may curve. Illustratively, housing tube 400 maycomprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve less than 7.5 degrees, when cable410 is fully extended relative to housing tube 400. For example, housingtube 400 may comprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve greater than 7.5degrees, when cable 410 is fully extended relative to housing tube 400.In one or more embodiments, housing tube 400 may comprise a slight curveconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 450 may curve, e.g.,due to a rotation of actuation control 100 within handle inner portion240.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 450. FIG. 7A illustrates a fullycurved optic fiber 700. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 450 maycomprise a fully curved optic fiber 700, e.g., when cable 410 is fullyretracted relative to housing tube 400. For example, optic fiber 450 maycomprise a fully curved optic fiber 700, e.g., when first housing tubeportion 420 is fully compressed. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may be parallel to a line tangentto housing tube proximal end 402, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises afully curved optic fiber 700.

FIG. 7B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 710. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 450 from a fully curved optic fiber 700to an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position 710.Illustratively, a rotation of actuation control 100 within handle innerportion 240 may be configured to extend cable 410 relative to housingtube 400. In one or more embodiments, an extension of cable 410 relativeto housing tube 400 may be configured to reduce a force applied tohousing tube 400, e.g., an extension of cable 410 relative to housingtube 400 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion offirst housing tube portion 420. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 400 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 400, e.g., a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 400 may be configured to decompress a portion offirst housing tube portion 420. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 400 may be configured togradually straighten housing tube 400. Illustratively, a gradualstraightening of housing tube 400 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 450, e.g., from a fully curved optic fiber 700 toan optic fiber in a first partially straightened position 710. In one ormore embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 mayintersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402 at a firstpartially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises anoptic fiber in a first partially straightened position 710.Illustratively, the first partially straightened angle may comprise anyangle less than 180 degrees. For example, the first partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 7C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 720. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 450 from an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 710 to an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 720. Illustratively, a rotation ofactuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configuredto extend cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 maybe configured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 400, e.g., anextension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of first housing tube portion 420.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to decompress a portion of first housing tube portion420. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to gradually straighten housing tube 400.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 450, e.g., from an opticfiber in a first partially straightened position 710 to an optic fiberin a second partially straightened position 720. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402 at a second partiallystraightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises an optic fiberin a second partially straightened position 720. Illustratively, thesecond partially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than thefirst partially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 7D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 730. In one or more embodiments, a rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 450 from an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 720 to an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 730. Illustratively, a rotation ofactuation control 100 within handle inner portion 240 may be configuredto extend cable 410 relative to housing tube 400. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 maybe configured to reduce a force applied to housing tube 400, e.g., anextension of cable 410 relative to housing tube 400 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of first housing tube portion 420.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 400,e.g., a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housing tube 400may be configured to decompress a portion of first housing tube portion420. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housingtube 400 may be configured to gradually straighten housing tube 400.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 400 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 450, e.g., from an opticfiber in a second partially straightened position 720 to an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 730. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 451 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 402 at a third partiallystraightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 730. Illustratively, thethird partially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than thesecond partially straightened angle. For example, the third partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 7E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 740.In one or more embodiments, a rotation of actuation control 100 withinhandle inner portion 240 may be configured to gradually straighten opticfiber 450 from an optic fiber in a third partially straightened position730 to an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 740.Illustratively, a rotation of actuation control 100 within handle innerportion 240 may be configured to extend cable 410 relative to housingtube 400. In one or more embodiments, an extension of cable 410 relativeto housing tube 400 may be configured to reduce a force applied tohousing tube 400, e.g., an extension of cable 410 relative to housingtube 400 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion offirst housing tube portion 420. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 400 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 400, e.g., a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 400 may be configured to decompress a portion offirst housing tube portion 420. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 400 may be configured togradually straighten housing tube 400. Illustratively, a gradualstraightening of housing tube 400 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 450, e.g., from an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 730 to an optic fiber in a fullystraightened position 740. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 451 may be parallel to a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 402, e.g., when optic fiber 450 comprises an opticfiber in a fully straightened position 740.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 451 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 451 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 300 to orient housing tube 400 in an orientation configured tocause a curvature of housing tube 400 within the particular transverseplane of the inner eye and varying an amount of rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240. Illustratively, a surgeonmay aim optic fiber distal end 451 at any target within a particularsagittal plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotating handle 300 to orienthousing tube 400 in an orientation configured to cause a curvature ofhousing tube 400 within the particular sagittal plane of the inner eyeand varying an amount of rotation of actuation control 100 within handleinner portion 240. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aim opticfiber distal end 451 at any target within a particular frontal plane ofthe inner eye by, e.g., varying an amount of rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240 to orient a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 451 wherein the line tangent to optic fiberdistal end 451 is within the particular frontal plane of the inner eyeand rotating handle 300. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiberdistal end 451 at any target located outside of the particulartransverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and the particularfrontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 300 and varying an amount of rotation of actuationcontrol 100 within handle inner portion 240. In one or more embodiments,a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 451 at any target of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without increasing a length ofa portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye. Illustratively, asurgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 451 at any target of a pluralityof targets within an eye, e.g., without decreasing a length of a portionof a steerable laser probe within the eye.

The foregoing description has been directed to particular embodiments ofthis invention. It will be apparent; however, that other variations andmodifications may be made to the described embodiments, with theattainment of some or all of their advantages. Specifically, it shouldbe noted that the principles of the present invention may be implementedin any system. Furthermore, while this description has been written interms of a surgical instrument, the teachings of the present inventionare equally suitable to any systems where the functionality may beemployed. Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to coverall such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit andscope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: inserting a housing tubethrough a cannula wherein the housing tube has a housing tube distal endand a housing tube proximal end and the housing tube distal end isinserted through the cannula; inserting the housing tube distal end intoan eye wherein the housing tube distal end projects from a distal end ofa handle; applying a first force vector to an actuation control of thehandle wherein the first force vector is directed away from the distalend of the handle and towards a proximal end of the handle; actuatingthe actuation control to a first position within an inner portion of thehandle; curving an optic fiber relative to the housing tube proximal endto a first curved position in the eye wherein the optic fiber has anoptic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end; removing thefirst force vector from the actuation control; fixing the actuationcontrol in the first position within the inner portion of the handle;fixing the optic fiber in the first curved position in the eye; applyinga second force vector to the actuation control of the handle wherein thesecond force vector is directed away from the distal end of the handleand towards the proximal end of the handle; actuating the actuationcontrol to a second position within the inner portion of the handle;curving the optic fiber relative to the housing tube proximal end to asecond curved position in the eye; removing the second force vector fromthe actuation control; fixing the actuation control in the secondposition within the inner portion of the handle; and fixing the opticfiber in the second curved position in the eye.
 2. The method of claim 1further comprising: transmitting laser light through the optic fiber. 3.The method of claim 1 further comprising: transmitting illuminationlight through the optic fiber.
 4. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: curving the optic fiber in the eye without increasing anamount of the optic fiber in the eye.
 5. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: curving the optic fiber in the eye without decreasing anamount of the optic fiber in the eye.
 6. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: straightening the optic fiber relative to the housing tubeproximal end to a first straightened position in the eye.
 7. The methodof claim 6 further comprising: fixing optic fiber in the firststraightened position in the eye.
 8. The method of claim 7 furthercomprising: straightening the optic fiber relative to the housing tubeproximal end to a second straightened position in the eye.
 9. The methodof claim 8 further comprising: fixing the optic fiber in the secondstraightened position in the eye.
 10. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: curving the housing tube.
 11. The method of claim 1 whereinthe second curved position of the optic fiber is greater than the firstcurved position of the optic fiber.
 12. The method of claim 11 whereinthe second curved position of the optic fiber is at least 45 degreesgreater than the first curved position of the optic fiber.
 13. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising: compressing a portion of thehousing tube.
 14. A method comprising: inserting a housing tube througha cannula wherein the housing tube has a housing tube distal end and ahousing tube proximal end and the housing tube distal end is insertedthrough the cannula; inserting the housing tube distal end into an eyewherein the housing tube distal end projects from a distal end of ahandle; applying a first force vector to an actuation control of thehandle wherein the first force vector is directed away from a proximalend of the handle and towards the distal end of the handle; actuatingthe actuation control to a first position within an inner portion of thehandle; straightening an optic fiber relative to the housing tubeproximal end to a first straightened position in the eye wherein theoptic fiber has an optic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximalend; removing the first force vector from the actuation control; fixingthe actuation control in the first position within the inner portion ofthe handle; fixing the optic fiber in the first straightened position inthe eye; applying a second force vector to the actuation control of thehandle wherein the second force vector is directed away from theproximal end of the handle and towards the distal end of the handle;actuating the actuation control to a second position within the innerportion of the handle; straightening the optic fiber relative to thehousing tube proximal end to a second straightened position in the eye;removing the second force vector from the actuation control; fixing theactuation control in the second position within the inner portion of thehandle; and fixing the optic fiber in the second straightened positionin the eye.
 15. The method of claim 14 further comprising: curving theoptic fiber relative to the housing tube proximal end to a first curvedposition in the eye.
 16. The method of claim 15 further comprising:fixing the optic fiber in the first curved position in the eye.
 17. Themethod of claim 16 further comprising: curving the optic fiber relativeto the housing tube proximal end to a second curved position in the eye.18. The method of claim 17 further comprising: fixing the optic fiber inthe second curved position in the eye.
 19. The method of claim 17wherein the second curved position of the optic fiber is greater thanthe first curved position of the optic fiber.
 20. The method of claim 19wherein the second curved position of the optic fiber is at least 45degrees greater than the first curved position of the optic fiber.